Effect of reserpine on the acetylcholine content of the heart, the ileum and the hypothalamus of the dog

The effect of intravenous administration of reserpine in 10 dogs was studied on the acetylcholine content of the sino-atrial node, the right auricle and the right ventricle of the heart, the ileum and the hypothalamus of dog. The general sedation, the bradycardia, and the purgative effects of reserpine were also noted. Tissues were removed for estimation of acetylcholine when bradycardia was maximal. Reserpine increased the acetylcholine content of all the tissues studied. The increase in the peripheral tissues was greater than in the hypothalamus. The bradycardia and the purgative effects of reserpine may be related to the increase of the acetylcholine content of the sino-atrial node and the ileum.